With a background in nursing, engineering, and entrepreneurship, I have dedicated the past two decades to teaching and leadership in both mainstream and SEN schools. My primary role is as a secondary English teacher, but I have also contributed significantly to primary education and supported families and students during the Covid pandemic.
As Assistant Headteacher at a SEN/Autism school, I led initiatives in Teaching and Learning and staff development. I spearheaded the creation of a tailored assessment system for children with autism, focusing on individualised progression.
To enhance staff development, I introduced coaching as a replacement for traditional performance management, fostering personal growth and collaboration. I also revamped Quality Assurance methods, promoting self-assurance and reflective practices among staff and leadership.
Since 2017, I have been addressing equality and diversity in education. Particularly racism, misogyny, and sexism in schools by diversifying the curriculum and promoting inclusivity. These efforts, which are now gaining traction in mainstream education, and more recently in government, reflect the ongoing shift towards a more inclusive and equitable learning environment for all.
Hello, I'm Denise. With two children, my journey has been deeply intertwined with ensuring appropriate support for my 24-year-old daughter, who has autism and mutism. Over the past 18 years, I've navigated various systems, from securing statements of need to EHCPs and the diagnostic pathway, ensuring she receives the necessary care and support.
My involvement in Special Educational Needs (SEN) and Disabilities spans nearly two decades, with over 13 years in education settings and 10 years in a Special Educational Needs school.
While I cherish working directly with young people with SEN, my true passion lies in assisting families in securing the right provisions for their child or young person, guiding parents and carers on their legal rights and entitlements.
Over the last five years, I've supported families in various capacities, including requesting EHCP assessments, navigating draft EHCPs, and liaising with Local Authorities (LAs).
I've also represented families in mediations, including those with North Yorkshire LA, Wakefield, and Barnsley. Additionally, I've supported families through formal complaint processes, resulting in successful outcomes, including compensation for two young individuals.
My commitment to advocating for children's rights led me to undertake a SEN law training course, where I've attained Level 2 and am currently studying Level 3. I firmly believe that every child has a legal right to education and to reach their full potential.
Section 19 (d) of the Children and Families Act underscores the importance of supporting children and young people to facilitate their development and achieve the best possible outcomes, a principle I uphold in my advocacy efforts.
Hello, I'm Tracy. I specialise in supporting vulnerable children, young people, and their families through various challenges they encounter in their daily lives. My dedication lies in fostering each individual's growth towards their fullest potential.
Throughout my extensive 28 year career spanning both government and private sectors, I've honed a diverse skill set and deep understanding of effective interventions. From direct one-on-one support to collaborative team efforts and facilitating group sessions, I bring versatility to every role.
My approach is characterised by honesty, optimism, positivity, and proactivity. This enables me to swiftly and effectively guide individuals towards positive outcomes, transforming negative behaviours into constructive ones.
I'm particularly driven to empower children and their caregivers, emphasising the importance of communication and nurturing self-awareness and self-belief on an individual level.